32713, Debary, Florida Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 32713, Debary, Florida is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.48 percent of residents in 32713 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adventhealth Fish Memorial with a distance of 2.42 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in DeBary, Florida (ZIP Code 32713)

Considering a move to DeBary, Florida (ZIP code 32713), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for someone facing Alzheimer's disease? This analysis assesses the challenges and opportunities related to transportation and healthcare in the area, providing an "Alzheimer's Score" to help you understand the practical realities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, all crucial factors impacting quality of life for individuals with cognitive impairments.

DeBary, nestled in Volusia County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to larger metropolitan areas. However, its healthcare landscape, like many suburban communities, presents specific transportation hurdles. The Alzheimer's Score aims to quantify these challenges, offering a nuanced understanding of the ease with which residents can access vital medical care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The primary mode of transportation in DeBary is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The ability to drive, or the availability of someone to drive, becomes paramount. The major arteries influencing healthcare access are Interstate 4 (I-4), the primary east-west thoroughfare, and U.S. Highway 17-92, a more local north-south route.

For residents needing specialized Alzheimer's care, or simply routine appointments, drive times become critical. The closest major hospitals, like AdventHealth Fish Memorial in Orange City and AdventHealth Orlando, are reachable via I-4. Expect a drive of approximately 15-25 minutes to Orange City, assuming typical traffic conditions. Orlando, with its comprehensive medical facilities, presents a longer journey, potentially 45 minutes to an hour, especially during peak commuting hours.

U.S. 17-92 offers a more direct, albeit slower, route to local clinics and smaller medical offices. This route, while less congested than I-4, can be subject to traffic lights and slower speed limits, adding to the travel time. Navigating these roadways, particularly during periods of cognitive decline, can be challenging. The Alzheimer's Score considers the impact of these drive times, traffic conditions, and the need for reliable transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in DeBary, and Volusia County in general, presents a significant challenge for individuals with Alzheimer's. The Volusia County Transportation (VOTRAN) system provides bus service, but its coverage within DeBary is limited. Routes are infrequent, and often require transfers, increasing travel time and complexity.

The primary VOTRAN route serving DeBary is likely Route 20, which runs along U.S. 17-92. This route offers access to some medical facilities, but the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a major deterrent. Furthermore, the routes may not directly serve all medical locations, necessitating a walk or further transportation upon arrival.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features are incorporated into VOTRAN buses, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the overall usability of public transit for individuals with Alzheimer's is significantly hampered by the infrequent service, the potential for confusion with routes and schedules, and the need for independent navigation. The Alzheimer's Score reflects the limited utility of public transit as a primary mode of healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option in DeBary. However, their availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with disabilities and those needing assistance. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. While these services offer a valuable resource, they typically come with a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

Several medical transport brands operate in the DeBary area. These include companies like Firstat Nursing Services and several local providers. The Alzheimer's Score takes into account the availability, cost, and reliability of these specialized services, recognizing their importance in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with cognitive impairments.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Alzheimer's Score is not a single numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed above. It considers the following elements:

* **Drive Time Accessibility:** The ease of accessing healthcare facilities via personal vehicle, considering traffic conditions and the proximity of major hospitals and clinics.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transportation options, including ADA features.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The presence and reliability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport providers.
* **Cost Considerations:** The financial implications of each transportation option, including the cost of ride-sharing, medical transport, and the potential need for caregiver support.
* **Environmental Factors:** The impact of weather, traffic, and road conditions on travel times and safety.

**Moving to DeBary: A Considered Decision**

For individuals considering a move to DeBary, Florida, with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's or a related cognitive impairment, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. While DeBary offers a pleasant living environment, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of relying solely on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services must be carefully considered.

The Alzheimer's Score for DeBary would likely be moderate, reflecting the availability of some transportation options but also highlighting the significant challenges. The score would emphasize the importance of careful planning, the potential need for caregiver support, and the exploration of specialized medical transport services.

Ultimately, the decision to move to DeBary requires a personalized evaluation, weighing the benefits of the community against the practical realities of healthcare access. Understanding the transportation landscape, as detailed in this analysis, is a critical first step in making an informed decision.